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Choosing a fertilizer can be a confusing process for even the most experienced gardeners. Selecting the right type of fertilizer requires knowing the exact cause of the plant issue you seek to remedy or how you want to help plants grow. Your options include liquid fertilizers or solid granular fertilizers. Weighing the pros and cons of each type can help you choose the right method for creating a healthy environment for your plants.

Benefits of Liquid Fertilizer

Liquid fertilizers are concentrates or water-soluble powders of synthetic chemicals that contain a mix of nitrogen, phosphorous, potassium and iron. They are easy to apply to lawns and plants. After following the directions to dilute the concentrate or create a liquid solution from powder mix, you can apply liquid fertilizer using spray bottles or sprinkler attachments. The solution acts quickly to make nutrients available to plants. Some liquid fertilizers provide an immediate effect as leaves and roots absorb the mixture.

Disadvantages of Liquid Fertilizer

If gardeners do not carefully follow the directions for mixing or applying liquid fertilizer they can cause severe damage to plants and lawns. Too much liquid fertilizer can burn grass, leaving discolored streaks on the lawn, and damage plant foliage. The solution can also leach deep into the soil, making it unavailable. Consequently, liquid fertilizer needs more frequent applications than other types of fertilizer. Liquid fertilizer may also contribute to water pollution if it seeps into storm drains.

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Benefits of Granular Fertilizer

Gardeners work granular fertilizer into soil after sprinkling or spreading the granules into flowers beds or grass. The effects of granular fertilizer last longer because the solid is absorbed at a slower rate. The release period of granules can vary from a month up to nine months. An advantage of slow-release granular fertilizer is that you do not have to apply it often. Organic granular fertilizer that does not contain chemicals is also commercially available. Using slow-release organic granular fertilizer significantly decreases the chances of damaging lawns and plants.

Disadvantages of Granular Fertilizer

Because granular fertilizers do not immediately affect plants, it may take a long time for positive results to show. Plants may not receive nutrients fast enough to help them recover from deficiencies. Granular fertilizers also need moisture and warm temperatures to act. The pH of soil may also adversely influence their effectiveness. As with liquid fertilizer, inappropriate application of granular fertilizer will leave telltale streaks and spots of burned grass on lawns.

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About the Author

Lauren Miller has more than 10 years of experience as a writer and editor. Her articles on technology, small business and legal topics have appeared in magazines, newspapers and trade journals. She has a Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and is an avid gardener and sports fan.